The couple suffered "minor injuries" and have been described "shocked and distressed" following the robbery.

A Cumbria Police spokeswoman said: "The occupants – a man and a woman – were threatened with weapons believed to be crowbars, by men who entered their house via an insecure door and stole cash and jewellery.

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The armed gang threatened the couple with crowbars

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The attack took place on Saturday evening in Storrs, near Bowness-on-Windermere

"The couple were tied up by the offenders and suffered minor injuries in the incident."

Officers have since launched a large-scale manhunt for the three male robbers, all thought to be around 6ft tall.

Detective Chief Inspector Doug Marshall said: “Any incidents of this nature are treated with the upmost seriousness and will not be tolerated in our county.

"This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims to endure and we are determined to do everything possible to find those responsible and to bring them to justice.

“We have a team of detectives and officers working hard to trace the offenders and we are working with the victims to get detailed accounts of what happened and what was taken.

"We also have increased visibility in the area and will be speaking to local residents.

“I am appealing for anyone who has seen three men acting suspiciously in this area to come forward with any information.

"The suspects may have been in the Bowness area during the day or staying at a local hotel or guest house, so any information may be relevant.”